TV chef gives students food for thought in suffolk

14th April 2014

Celebrity chef Brian Turner gave students a masterclass in cooking when he visited a college in Bury St Edmunds.

In his role as a Clydesdale Bank ambassador, Brian provided valuable insight to 20 Level Three hospitality and catering students at West Suffolk College. The students took part in a fine dining themed event, cooking a set meal for 58 guests from the local business community, invited by Clydesdale Bank.

On the menu prepared by the catering students were expertly prepared canapés, petits fours and a three course meal, while hospitality students tended to guests and provided a personalised table service.

Drawing on his many years of experience as a chef, Brian spoke to attendees and students about the pressures associated with working in the kitchen, with particular emphasis on the importance of having good organisational skills.

Guests also took part in a question and answer session following the meal.
The event took place at Zest, a restaurant located within the college which is open to the public through reservation. Zest is regularly used for practical training across the catering and hospitality courses.

Carmel Asbury, Head of School of Hospitality at West Suffolk College, said; “Working with such a high profile professional chef is a brilliant opportunity for our students. We are very pleased that Brian was willing to share his valuable expertise with them. 

“We are proud of our students and Brian was very impressed with how they performed in the kitchen. This exciting experience will enrich and benefit these students’ future careers.”

Richard Chapman, Head of Business & Private Banking in East Anglia, said: “The event was an excellent learning experience for the students.

“Brian is the perfect example of what talent and drive can do for you professionally. His expertise has been invaluable to those who attended and I’m sure the students have benefitted from his wisdom and guidance on the day.”